A new sign was installed Wednesday at the former Blue Bay restaurant, now Lighthouse Seafood. One of Cherokee County's favorite eateries makes its long awaited return next month, hoping that a new name will bring better business and a pleasurable dining experience for all.

The Lighthouse Restaurant, which was formerly the Blue Bay Restaurant located on Floyd Baker Boulevard, is slated to open for business within the next two to three weeks.

The restaurant was one of the more popular places for people to dine during the five to six years it was located in Gaffney. But several months ago, Blue Bay closed mysteriously for repairs.

But new manager Mike Alchihavi said he hopes that the opening of the restaurant will bring loyal customers back to Gaffney as well as attract new ones.

"We have a new name, but the same food and great quality," Alchihavi said. "The new name should bring people here and let them know that this is a new beginning, one that everyone can enjoy."

Serving as a reference of Lighthouse's commitment to a "new beginning," construction crews have been in and out of the restaurant remodeling everything - from Harry's Handyman Service painting the walls to former Blue Bay now Lighthouse employees refurbishing the kitchen.

"There is still a lot of work to be done," Alchihavi said. "But we want people to come again and make this their favorite place to eat."

Once opened, the restaurant will likely start out serving dinner and hope to progress from there. Alchihavi believes, however, that he can do even better than that, adding certain things to the menu.

"After a while, I want to be able to serve lunch or, even better, breakfast," Alchihavi said. "Also, we may end up placing dessert items and Italian cuisine on the menu."

Although the restaurant is still undergoing a minor facelift, Alchihavi said he is in the process of hiring employees.

"Things are starting to move and opening day is getting closer," Alchihavi said. "We just have to get the last pieces to the puzzle."